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8 essential oils for anxiety you should try

If you experience anxiety, there are several essential oils that could help you, whether you experience it on a daily basis or just occasionally. They not only smell incredible but these aromas can have a hugely positive effect too when you add a few drops to your bath water, spray some onto your pillow or apply them topically onto your skin.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years by those looking for anxiety relief. They are extremely concentrated fragrant extracts. For instance, it takes 220 pounds of lavender flowers to make just one pound of lavender essential oil.[1]

Lavender is the most popular of all essential oils. [2]This wonder scent can help ease anxiety and stress[3], so much so that researchers at the Royal Berkshire Hospital NHS Trust, Reading, used it on patients in the intensive care unit[4]. Several studies have shown that it can be hugely beneficial to patients who are sleep deprived[5].

Popular in India and Sri Lanka, Vetiver essential oil is often referred to as the ‘oil of tranquillity. [7]It has a sweet, smoky scent that’s similar to sandalwood essential oil. It can alleviate emotional stress, anxiety, depression and panic attacks.[8]

This tropical scent is both calming and uplifting. It is one of the best essential oils to use if you want to boost your emotional wellbeing[9]. It can reduce your blood pressure and has mild sedative qualities too.[10]

Frankincense has a rich, warm aroma. It can lift your mood, boost the oxygen supply to your brain and stimulate the limbic system, helping to bring your emotions back into check[11]. Adding to your bath should help relax both your mind and body.

This essential oil has been used for centuries to help reduce anxiety symptoms. Studies have shown that Jasmine can stimulate your brain to improve your mood and energy levels[14]. It can also calm your nervous system. [15]

Try massaging chamomile oil (not directly) onto your skin or inhaling it when you’re feeling anxious or have a headache. It has a slightly herby aroma and you’ll no doubt think of chamomile tea as you breathe it in. Chamomile oil can also be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema.[16]